pliable

adjective

pli·​able ˈplī-ə-bəl How to pronounce pliable (audio)
1
a
: supple enough to bend freely or repeatedly without breaking
b
: yielding readily to others : complaisant
2
: adjustable to varying conditions
pliability noun
pliableness noun
pliably adverb
Choose the Right Synonym for pliable

plastic, pliable, pliant, ductile, malleable, adaptable mean susceptible of being modified in form or nature.

plastic applies to substances soft enough to be molded yet capable of hardening into the desired fixed form.

plastic materials allow the sculptor greater freedom

pliable suggests something easily bent, folded, twisted, or manipulated.

pliable rubber tubing

pliant may stress flexibility and sometimes connote springiness.

an athletic shoe with a pliant sole

ductile applies to what can be drawn out or extended with ease.

ductile metals such as copper

malleable applies to what may be pressed or beaten into shape.

the malleable properties of gold

adaptable implies the capability of being easily modified to suit other conditions, needs, or uses.

computer hardware that is adaptable

Examples of pliable in a Sentence

Because the leather is pliable, it's easy to work with. She sometimes takes advantage of her pliable parents.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Chappell Roan represents a brave new generation of artists who aren’t as pliable or agreeable as their pop forebears—less willing to cozy up to political power and a little more aware, independent, and in control of their influence. Hazlitt, 23 Oct. 2024 The silicone bristles are extremely pliable, and it’s recommended to gently use circular motions as the 8,000 pulsations per minute penetrate the skin. Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour, 11 Oct. 2024 Everything came out feeling soft and pliable, and the washcloth especially was fluffy. Barbara Bellesi Zito, Better Homes & Gardens, 31 July 2024 The Materials Matter Soft, pliable materials like leather or mesh are the best options for bunions. Trina Gray, People.com, 24 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for pliable 

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, borrowed from Anglo-French, from plier "to fold, bend" + -able -able — more at ply entry 3

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of pliable was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near pliable

Cite this Entry

“Pliable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pliable. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

pliable

adjective
pli·​able ˈplī-ə-bəl How to pronounce pliable (audio)
1
: possible to bend without breaking
2
: easily influenced
pliability noun

More from Merriam-Webster on pliable

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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